The two main title protagonists headed to the Red Bull Ring fresh from the controversial Azerbaijan Grand Prix a fortnight ago.

Vettel finished ahead of Hamilton to add to his title lead despite being hit with a 10-second stop-and-go penalty for deliberately driving his Ferrari into the Briton.

The four-time world champion escaped further punishment after a meeting with the FIA, motorsport’s governing body, on Monday and the pair said earlier in the week that they are now fully focused on winning here.

As is protocol the top three drivers were interviewed on the grid after the qualifying session, with the host asking for Vettel and Hamilton to shake hands only for the latter to walk away.

Before that he congratulated his team-mate on just his second pole position in F1 and said he was aiming to share the top steps of Sunday’s podium with the Finn.

“Firstly, congratulations to Valtteri – he did a fantastic job. He has been quick all weekend and Sebastian has been very quick,” said Hamilton. “It just wasn’t meant to be today. I will do the best job I can, obviously I want to get up there and get a one-two with Valtteri.”